N5544J

Substantial
None

PIPER PA28S/N: 28-22075

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, May 27, 2017
NTSB Number
GAA17CA322
Location
Gilbert, SC
Event ID
20170605X01945
Coordinates
33.963890, -81.359169
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
1
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's improper glidepath in variable wind conditions, which resulted in the airplane impacting terrain short of the runway threshold.

Aircraft Information

Registration
N5544J
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
28-22075
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1966
Model / ICAO
PA28P28A
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Registered Owner (Historical)

Name
REGISTRATION PENDING
Address
105 ABBIE CT
Status
Deregistered
City
LEXINGTON
State / Zip Code
SC 29072-2902
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot reported that, during the final approach to land, the airplane encountered a "swirling wind due to [the] high trees on final approach." Subsequently, the airplane impacted terrain about 10 to 12 ft. short of the runway threshold, the nose wheel collapsed, and the airplane skidded to a stop as it continued forward onto the runway.

The engine mount sustained substantial damage.

The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

An automated weather observation station, about 12 nautical miles from the accident airport, recorded wind from 130° at 7 knots. The pilot reported that the landing was on runway 27.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# GAA17CA322